Flame Red. The Chevrolet Motor Company was formed in 1911. The Corvette, Americas first sports car, was introduced in 1953, the third generation C3 Corvette was built from 1968-82, an all new body, based on the Mako Shark II concept car, it was longer, narrower and lower, a T top was now available. Big block cars got power bulge hood and integral air exhaust vents. In 1973, the new urethane front bumper was introduced, the rear bumper was still chrome in 1973. For 1974, the rear urethane tapered rear end was introduced. In 1975 front and rear bumper guards were added either side of the number plate, the 454 cu in dropped. The convertible was dropped for 1976, also in 1976 a smaller Corvette badge to the rear and the air vents were removed from the rear deck. 1975 Engines; 165 or 205hp 350 cu in